ASIA - TAILOR-MADE JOURNEYS 2021/2022 - World Journeys
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Beijing JAPAN CHINA Tokyo Osaka Xi’an Hiroshima TIBET Lhasa Chengdu Shanghai MYANMAR Mandalay Hong Kong Kolkata Hanoi Naypyitaw LAOS Vientiane Yangon Hoi An THAILAND Bangkok VIETNAM CAMBODIA Phnom Penh Saigon (Ho Chi Minh) Phuket MALAYSIA Kuala Lumpur Bawah Island SINGAPORE INDONESIA Bali MORE INSPIRATION? This link will take you to our website: > Asia BEST NICHE WHOLESALER
CONTENTS 2 ABOUT US 23 SINGAPORE, MALAYSIA & THAILAND 3 TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL 23 Eastern & Oriental Express 4-5 OUR FAVOURITE PLACES 24 THAILAND 6 JAPAN 24 Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary 6 Highlights of Japan 25 INDONESIA 7 Japan Adventure 25 Bawah Reserve 8 Culinary Japan 26 Villa San & Villa Kakatua, Bali 9 Cultural Japan 27 Villa Maridadi & Villa Anucara, Bali 10 Hokkaido’s Far North 11 Family Japan 28 CHINA 28 China Highlights 12 VIETNAM 29 The Imperial Yangtze 12 Vietnam Family Adventure 13 Vietnam in Style 30 TIBET 14 Vietnam Art & Heritage 30 Heart of Tibet 15 The Lost Civilisation 31 Tibet Unveiled 16 CAMBODIA 32 GIVING BACK 16 Cambodia in Style 33 TERMS & CONDITIONS 17 Angkor Discovery 18 LAOS 18 Luxury Laos in Style 19 Laos Culinary Tour 20 MYANMAR 20 A World Apart 21 Ayeyarwady Adventure 22 The Chindwin Explorer
ABOUT US Put simply, we plan and deliver journeys so you don’t have to. We, along with our talented team, are all travel aficionados. Putting our many years of personal experience to good use, we craft itineraries to suit you, your interests, your budget. Not only is travel our passion, it is our mission to provide the very best level of service and expert specialist knowledge – never more important than in today’s world. This is no ordinary travel, this is memorable travel with personality, designed to inspire. ANGELA PIRIE With a background in group travel and product research, Ange is dedicated to ensuring that your journey is personalised and exceeds expectations. Having travelled to many inspiring destinations, Ange’s knowledge of Africa is second- to-none. A few of her highlights have been hot air ballooning over the Serengeti, swimming with dolphins in Zanzibar, and on a recent trip to Myanmar, e-biking around the temples of Bagan. CHRIS LYONS Chris started his travelling career in the mid 1970’s, spending over a year travelling Central and South America, a part of the world for which he has a real passion, and a region he returns to regularly. Fascinated with history and archaeology, Chris has delighted in exploring historical treasures including Angkor Wat, Machu Picchu, and the Persepolis ruins. Many years of hosting tours means Chris has a real understanding of the needs of every traveller. BRETT BARCLAY Brett has visited over 100 countries but the bucket list keeps growing! Highlights include being in the Rio Carnival, exploring West Africa, and being immersed in Japanese culture in ryokans (traditional inns). Brett is an avid cruiser, a rail buff, and a huge fan of family travel (as his son can testify!). Latest adventures include Ethiopia, “One of the most fascinating countries I have ever been to”, an expedition cruise to Antarctica, and meeting the mountain gorillas of Uganda. KATE COULING With a 12-month OE that somehow stretched out to 12 years, Kate has a particular passion for the history, people, and culture of North Africa and the Middle East, even choosing to live in the region long enough to learn Arabic. However, she is equally content getting lost in the alleys of Venice Island, chatting to child monks in Bhutan, or checking in to the Manor Houses of Ireland. If travel is a bug, Kate is delighted to have caught it. World Journeys is a member of the Travel Agents Association of New Zealand (TAANZ) and participates in the TAANZ Bonding Scheme for the protection of the consumer. 2
TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL Here we showcase journeys to some of the most fascinating and exotic places on earth. They are our personal suggestions of what to do, what to see and where to stay. We know travellers value flexibility so we generally have no set departure dates, and itineraries are not regimented: journeys can be tailor-made to suit your needs. We offer professional planning and expert knowledge, working with you to create your dream trip. Our backup services take the stress out of travel; if your flight is delayed or transport doesn’t show, we’ll sort out the arrangements. STAR RATINGS We consider a variety of criteria in our selection of accommodation, including location, style, ambience, comfort, service, and facilities. Star ratings differ widely around the world, so we have based ours on typical standards, our own personal recommendations, and value for money. 3 Star – simple accommodation with adequate facilities, sometimes the best SPECIAL INTEREST YOUR DOCUMENTS available in the area. JOURNEYS 4 Star – comfortable accommodation To make sure you always know what We offer a range of special interest you’re doing and where you’re going with good service and facilities. travel focusing on wildlife, wellness, while you travel, we provide beautifully 5 Star – deluxe accommodation with cuisine, active holidays, rail, or cruises, prepared travel documents. These top service and excellent facilities. documents detail your day-by-day which can be found on our website. 6 Star – exceptional properties rating itinerary and include everything you amongst the best in the world with HOSTED JOURNEYS need for a hassle-free journey. You stunning outlook, outstanding service, will receive a travel wallet along with Our hosted journeys allow you to unique features, and superb facilities. a World Journeys luggage tag. These enjoy unique and inspiring small group travel documents are a wonderful GROUP JOURNEYS travel to some of the most fascinating memento of your journey. In addition to our tailor-made journeys destinations. These journeys include we offer some group tours which make flights and tipping, and are guaranteed WORLD JOURNEYS APP travel to certain destinations more to go, with a maximum group size Ask us about the World Journeys achievable and allow you to meet of 18 and a World Journeys host to app which gives you access to your people from all over the world! smooth the way. documents on your mobile device. 3
OUR FAVOURITE PLACES TO STAY PALACE HOTEL GORA KADAN Tokyo, Japan Hakone, Japan The Palace Hotel Tokyo effortlessly combines understated Immerse yourself in the traditional Japanese atmosphere luxury with subtle Japanese touches in a tranquil moat- of this ryokan near Mt Fuji. Soak in hot spring waters and side location adjacent to the Imperial Palace gardens. savour exquisite Kaiseki meals. THE THOUSAND SOFITEL LEGEND METROPOLE Kyoto, Japan Hanoi, Vietnam The rooms at The Thousand Kyoto blend minimalist This award-winning French Colonial style hotel boasts design with modern luxury to create a harmonious space a classical white facade, green shutters, original wrought that is the essence of Japanese comfort. iron detail, wood panelling and a lush courtyard lawn. THE NAM HAI JAYAVARMAN RIVER CRUISER Hoi An, Vietnam Lower Mekong, Cambodia & Vietnam Visually striking villas line a seemingly infinite stretch of This boutique river cruiser marries the art deco charm of white sand. The Nam Hai is spread over 35 hectares of 1930’s France with the romance of Indochina, all with tropical gardens complete with top-notch butlers. modern comforts. 4 ASIA
OUR FAVOURITE PLACES TO STAY RAFFLES GRAND HOTEL D’ANGKOR RAFFLES HOTEL LE ROYAL Siem Reap, Cambodia Phnom Penh, Cambodia Across from the Royal Palace, this hotel is full of original Raffles Hotel Le Royal blends luxury with an old-world treasures and rich in Cambodian history. Enjoy the six charm. Superbly located in the heart of Phnom Penh, this hectares of landscaped gardens and magnificent pool. landmark hotel is infused with the history of the city. SONG SAA PRIVATE ISLAND BAWAH RESERVE Koh Rong Archipelago, Cambodia Indonesia Luxury that treads lightly. The resort spans the islands The true meaning of sustainable luxury - relax amongst of Koh Ouen and Koh Bong complete with protected the blue lagoons and lush tropical greenery of this resort tropical reefs and a glistening white beach. in Indonesia’s remote Anambas Archipelago. BELMOND GOVERNOR’S RESIDENCE WA ALE RESORT Yangon, Myanmar Myanmar Unwind in style at this colonial-style 1920’s mansion A luxury eco-resort in Myanmar’s untouched Myeik in Yangon’s Embassy District, where rooms feature Archipelago, this intimate island retreat is surrounded by contemporary luxuries, teak carvings and delicate silks. a pristine marine ecosystem and rich jungle habitat. ASIA 5
JAPAN Kodaiji Temple, Kyoto HIGHLIGHTS OF JAPAN | 9 DAYS A wonderful introduction to Japan, from the bustle of Tokyo to the majesty of Mt Fuji. Tranquility abounds in Hakone before travelling to Kyoto and exploring the historic sites and the Sagano bamboo grove. Visiting Hiroshima is a moving experience as you witness a city that has been rebuilt from ashes into one that is prosperous and vibrant. DAY 7 KYOTO Enjoy a scenic walking tour and river cruise in Arashiyama, SEA including the Sagano bamboo grove and the iconic Togetsukyo OF JAPAN Bridge. JAPAN Tokyo DAY 8 KYOTO > HIROSHIMA > OSAKA Mt Fuji Travel by bullet train to Hiroshima where your guide will meet Hakone you for a private tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima. Continue Kyoto by bullet train to Osaka and overnight. Hiroshima Osaka Miyajima DAY 9 OSAKA NORTH Transfer to the airport by regular scheduled airport bus. PACIFIC OCEAN DAY 1 TOKYO You will be met and transferred to your hotel by regular scheduled airport bus. DAY 2 TOKYO Enjoy a private half day tour of Tokyo with a guide. Choose perhaps the Tsukiji Outer Fish Market and Imperial East Garden or Asakusa Kannon Temple and Tokyo Sky Tree. Tokyo DAY 3 TOKYO Scheduled day tour to Nikko, the ancient centre of Shinto INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey with English-speaking local and Buddhist mountain worship, with its magical shrines and guides, 8 nights’ hotel accommodation, airport transfers, 3 stunning natural scenery. private and 2 scheduled tours, entrance fees, 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 1 dinner. DAY 4 TOKYO > MT FUJI > HAKONE DEPARTS: Daily. Scheduled tour to Mt Fuji and then continue to Hakone, famous for its hot springs, for a ride on the Hakone Ropeway NOTE: There is the option to stay in a ryokan in Hakone and spectacular views. Overnight at a hotel. with its own onsen (thermal spa). Contact us for supplement. Blackout dates 1 - 3 Jan, 17 Jul - 15 Aug and 26 - 31 Dec. DAY 5 HAKONE > KYOTO Surcharges may apply over peak periods. Take the bullet train to Kyoto and then check-in at your hotel. The rest of your day is at leisure. 2021 Price (per person) Twin DAY 6 KYOTO 4 Jan – 13 Mar; 6 May – 16 Jul; Enjoy a private half day tour of Kyoto with a guide. Choose $7,669 4 Star 16 Aug – 30 Sep & 5 – 25 Dec perhaps Nijo Castle and Kinkakuji Temple or Kodaiji Temple and the Gion District. 14 Mar – 5 May; 1 Oct – 4 Dec $8,541 6 ASIA
JAPAN Nachi shrine and falls JAPAN ADVENTURE | 14 DAYS From the bright lights of Tokyo and Osaka to walking sections of the Nakasendo and Kumano Kodo trails, this unforgettable journey will allow you to experience traditional ryokans and onsens, shop in local markets, cycle and walk through wonderful scenery and soak in the vibrancy of Japan’s largest cities. The best of both worlds! DAY 8 TAKAYAMA > MAGOME > TSUMAGO Take the bus to Magome, where today’s walk on one of the most challenging parts of the Nakasendo Trail will take you Takayama Matsumoto over Magome Pass to Tsumago, one of the best preserved and Okuhida most evocative of the Nakasendo post-towns. At the end of the Tokyo trail at Tsumago, make your way to your ryokan for check-in. Tsumago JAPAN DAY 9 TSUMAGO > NAGOYA > TOBA Nagoya Take the train to Nagoya for some time at leisure before Osaka Toba continuing on by train to Toba. Transfer to the hotel for overnight. NORTH Kawayu PACIFIC DAY 10 TOBA Onsen Kii Katsura OCEAN Join your guide to visit the Ise Grand Shrine and Mikimoto Pearl Island, a small island in Ise Bay known as the birthplace of cultured pearl aquaculture. DAY 1 ARRIVE TOKYO DAY 11 TOBA > KII KATSUURA Transfer to your hotel by regular scheduled airport bus. Take the train to Kii Katsuura. This afternoon travel by local DAY 2 TOKYO bus to Daimonzaka Chushajo-mae and walk the trail that Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore Tokyo independently. allows you to visit Kumano Nachi Taisha, Seigan-toji Temple and Nachi falls. Return to Kii Katsuura for overnight. DAY 3 TOKYO > MATSUMOTO Take the train to Matsumoto. Visit to Matsumoto Castle, DAY 12 KII KATSUURA > KAWAYU ONSEN Nakamachi-dori with its well-preserved buildings and learn Take the bus to Hongu Taisha-mae and on to Hosshinmon-oji how miso is fermented using traditional natural methods. to walk a section of the Kumano Kodo Trail. Return to Kawayu Onsen for dinner and overnight. DAY 4 MATSUMOTO > HIRAYU ONSEN (OKUHIDA) Board the bus for Hirayu Onsen in the Okuhida area and make DAY 13 KAWAYU ONSEN > OSAKA your way to your ryokan. Perhaps try a soak in the traditional Take the bus and train to Osaka. This afternoon is at leisure. onsen before dinner this evening. DAY 14 DEPART OSAKA DAY 5 HIRAYU ONSEN (OKUHIDA) Transfer by regular scheduled airport bus to the airport. Today’s sightseeing can be tailored to meet your interests – there are a range of nice walks in the area including the beautiful INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey, 13 nights’ accommodation mountain valley of Kamikochi. in hotels and ryokans, buses and trains as indicated, sightseeing as shown, 13 breakfasts and 7 dinners. DAY 6 HIRAYU ONSEN (OKUHIDA) > TAKAYAMA Travel by bus to Takayama. Make your way to the hotel and DEPARTS: Daily (April – Oct). this afternoon is at leisure. NOTE: Black out dates apply, most accommodation is local family-run, simply furnished and less formal but with excellent DAY 7 TAKAYAMA food and wonderful personalised service. Join a food and culture group walking tour today. Stroll the side streets while stopping to taste local products and visit the 2021 Price (per person) Twin bustling morning market to experience the artistry of Japanese sweets. Travel by train to Hida-Furukawa for a group cycling 4 Star: 15 – 28 Apr, 10 May – 9 Jul, $12,467 excursion (22 kms). Later take the train back to Takayama. 6 Sep – 15 Oct from ASIA 7
JAPAN Tea ceremony CULINARY JAPAN | 12 DAYS Embark on a sumptuous culinary journey through Japan, exploring the unique tastes and sights of this gracious country! DAY 7 TAKAYAMA > SHIRAKAWAGO > TAKAYAMA Join a shared group cooking experience this morning. Start Shirakawago out at the bustling morning market to learn about the local Takayama Matsumoto ingredients, then head to the studio for a cooking lesson and lunch. This afternoon meet your guide for a private excursion by car to nearby Shirakawago to see the famous thatched JAPAN Tokyo farmhouses. DAY 8 TAKAYAMA > KYOTO Kyoto Take the train to Kyoto. On arrival, enjoy a half day private Osaka Nara tour with your guide, including a private tea ceremony at a NORTH PACIFIC local home, Nishiki-koji food street, and a walk through the OCEAN atmospheric Gion area. DAY 9 KYOTO > WAZUKA & NARA > KYOTO DAY 1 TOKYO Enjoy a full day private tour with your guide, travelling by car Transfer to your hotel by regular scheduled airport bus. to the Wazuka tea area. Walk through the tea plantations and DAY 2 TOKYO learn how to grind matcha. This afternoon, visit the old capital Enjoy a full day private tour of Tokyo, including a sushi of Nara, including Todaiji Temple, Nara Deer Park and Kasuga making experience and lunch. Visit Tsukiji Outer Market and Taisha Shrine. Kappabashi kitchenware town, finishing your tour with street DAY 10 KYOTO food tasting in the nostalgic Yanaka area. This evening, join Join a shared group walking tour of Arashiyama, including a shared group ramen tasting tour including 6 mini bowls of the Sagano bamboo grove and the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. ramen. This afternoon, meet your private guide for a Japanese wagashi DAY 3 TOKYO making experience. Learn how to make three traditional Your daytime is at leisure to explore Tokyo independently. This Japanese sweets, and taste them with matcha. evening, join a shared group food tour in Shinjuku, wandering DAY 11 KYOTO > OSAKA the backstreets and stopping to sample a wide variety of food Your morning is at leisure in Kyoto. This afternoon, travel in the tightly packed small izakayas (pubs) and bars of Omoide by car with your guide for a private afternoon tour of Osaka, Yokocho, Kabuchiko and the Golden Gai. including a tasting at the Yamazaki Whisky distillery, and visits DAY 4 TOKYO > MATSUMOTO to Dotonbori and Hozenzji food streets. Finish with a farewell Take the train to Matsumoto. Your afternoon is free to explore dinner at a teppanyaki restaurant, including the local specialty independently - don’t miss the city’s famous castle. of okonomiyaki. DAY 5 MATSUMOTO DAY 12 OSAKA Enjoy a full day private tour of the Matsumoto area, including Transfer by train to the airport. visits to a wasabi farm, winery and miso warehouse with miso themed lunch. INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey, 11 nights’ accommodation DAY 6 MATSUMOTO > TAKAYAMA in hotels and ryokans, transport and transfers as per the Travel by bus to Takayama. This afternoon enjoy a private itinerary, mix of shared and private tours, 11 breakfasts, 4 walking tour with your guide. Visit Takayama Jinya house and lunches and 5 dinners. stroll through the old streets, stopping to visit one of the town’s DEPARTS: Daily. sake breweries. Over the next two nights, stay in a traditional ryokan and savour elaborate Kaiseki meals featuring the local 2021 Price (per person) Twin specialty of Hida Beef, and perhaps have a relaxing soak in one of the shared onsen. 4 Star: from $14,086 8 ASIA
JAPAN Matsumoto Castle CULTURAL JAPAN | 10 DAYS Explore the culture, sights and tastes of Japan! Your journey begins in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, the country’s capital city. Visit Tokyo, Matsumoto, Kanazawa, the Noto Peninsula, Kyoto, Mt Koya and Osaka. from the Sea of Japan, and you will find numerous restaurants Noto Peninsula where you can sample some of the best and freshest seafood in JAPAN the country. Kanazawa DAY 6 KANAZAWA > NOTO PENINSULA Matsumoto Depart today with your guide for a tour of the nearby Noto Tokyo Peninsula by private car. After stopping at Chirihama Beach Drive, head to the Senmaida Rice Fields, where the steep sloping land is covered with 1,004 terraced rice paddies. Finish your tour by visiting the Museum of Urushi (Lacquer) Art in Kyoto Osaka Wajima City, one of the two main centres on the peninsula. This evening, enjoy an exquisite Japanese Kaiseki dinner at Mt. Koya your traditional ryokan and the chance to take a relaxing soak in one of the onsens. DAY 1 TOKYO DAY 7 NOTO PENINSULA > KYOTO Transfer to your hotel by regular scheduled airport bus. Transfer to Wakura Onsen station by scheduled shuttle bus and DAY 2 TOKYO travel by train to Kyoto. Afternoon at leisure. This morning join a shared half day tour of Tokyo, visiting DAY 8 KYOTO > MT KOYA (KOYASAN) the Tokyo Tower, the Meiji Shrine, and the Imperial Palace Today depart for Mt Koya with your guide for a private tour Gardens. Finish with a drive through Ginza, Tokyo's most exploring the temples of Koyasan. Stay overnight at a shukubo famous upmarket shopping, dining and entertainment district. (Buddhist temple) and experience a Shojin Ryori style dinner. Afternoon at leisure. Mt Koya is one of the best places in Japan to sample this DAY 3 TOKYO > MATSUMOTO vegetarian Buddhist monk cuisine. Transfer to the station by local taxi for your train service to DAY 9 MT KOYA (KOYASAN) > OSAKA Matsumoto. Stay overnight in a traditional ryokan located in Morning at leisure, then travel by train to Osaka. This evening, the mountains, including a Japanese Kaiseki dinner. Soak in discover the local foodie delights of Osaka with your guide on one of the several public hot spring baths, or head out for a a private tour (food/drink not included - please pay locally). walk on one of the surrounding forested paths. DAY 10 OSAKA DAY 4 MATSUMOTO > KANAZAWA Travel by rapid rail service to Kansai Airport to meet your Enjoy a Matsumoto sightseeing tour by private vehicle with onward flight. your guide. Visit Matsumoto Castle and Nakamachi-dori, a street filled with art and handcraft shops, as well as cafes and restaurants. Stop to see a wasabi farm before ending your tour INCLUDES: Tailor-made itinerary, 6 nights’ hotel at Nagano Station. Travel by train to Kanazawa and enjoy your accommodation, 2 nights’ ryokan accommodation, 1 nights’ evening at leisure. shukubo (temple) accommodation, 5 private tours, 1 shared tour, transfers and trains as indicated, 9 breakfasts and 3 DAY 5 KANAZAWA dinners. Meet your guide for a half day private tour of Kanazawa. Visit DEPARTS: Daily. the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, admire the famous Kenrokuen Garden and explore Omicho Market, 2021 Price (per person) Twin known as "Kanazawa's Kitchen". Enjoy your afternoon and evening at leisure. Kanazawa is well known for its fresh seafood 4 Star from $10,840 ASIA 9
JAPAN Lake Toya HOKKAIDO’S FAR NORTH | 14 DAYS Discover the vast landscapes, delicious cuisine and natural treasures of Hokkaido on this self-drive tour. The mountains, forests, patchwork fields, vast flower gardens, soothing onsen hot springs and diverse flora and fauna are sure to charm nature lovers. A gastronomic paradise, Hokkaido is also renowned for its ultra-fresh seafood, rich dairy products, and abundance of locally grown fruit and vegetables. DAY 1 SAPPORO stunning Blue Pond and its bright turquoise waters pierced by After collecting your portable “Pocket Wifi”, you will be larch and silver birch trees before ending your day at Furano. transferred to your hotel in Sapporo. DAY 10 FURANO DAY 2 SAPPORO, YOICHI & OTARU Today is free to explore the Furano area with your rental car. Enjoy a private full day guided tour with a local lunch, including Perhaps visit Farm Tomita’s famous lavender fields, visit a cheese a visit to nearby Otaru and the Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery. factory, or stop in at a local winery. DAY 3 SAPPORO > WAKKANAI DAY 11 FURANO > LAKE SHIKOTSU Collect your rental car and settle in for your drive north to Drive to Lake Shikotsu, a beautiful caldera lake surrounded Wakkanai. Today’s journey via Rumoi is along the western by mountains and famed for its clear waters. Admire the lake coastal road that runs parallel to the Sea of Japan. at close range on a sightseeing boat or kayak, stroll the paths DAY 4 WAKKANAI around the shoreline or enjoy the trails through the green forest. Today is free to explore the area around Wakkanai. Visit the DAY 12 LAKE SHIKOTSU > northernmost tip of Hokkaido to take in the panoramic views NOBORIBETSU > LAKE TOYA at Cape Soya, or take the “white road”, a path of crushed scallop Depart this morning for Upopoy, Japan’s first national museum shells. Tonight, perhaps sample the famous Soya Black Beef. dedicated to the history and culture of the indigenous Ainu people. Carry on to the onsen town of Noboribetsu for a walk DAY 5 WAKKANAI > RISHIRI through desolate landscape of Jigokudani - Hell Valley. Finish Take the car ferry to the island of Rishiri, where the dormant the day at your resort hotel overlooking Lake Toya. volcano known as Rishiri-Fuji dominates the landscape. Make sure to try the ultra-fresh and exceptional uni (sea urchin) that DAY 13 LAKE TOYA the island is famous for. Today is free to explore the Lake Toya area. Ride the Usuzan Ropeway close to the summit of one of Japan’s most active DAY 6 RISHIRI > REBUN volcanoes which boasts panoramic views. Spend the morning exploring the forested slopes of Rishiri before taking the car ferry to Rebun - the “Floating Island of DAY 14 LAKE TOYA > SAPPORO Flowers”. Take your pick of several hiking courses and don’t Drive back to Sapporo and return your rental car and Pocket miss the view at Cape Sukai with its crystal clear waters. Wifi, where arrangements end. DAY 7 REBUN > WAKKANAI The morning is free to further explore Rebun. Perhaps visit INCLUDES: Tailor-made self-drive itinerary, 13 nights’ Cape Sukoton, and spot seals in summer and see the Russian accommodation, 12 days car rental (Economy Plus) with island of Sakhalin on a clear day, or try the kelp flavoured ice English GPS car navigation, 14 day Pocket Wifi, 1st class cream before leaving the islands. This afternoon, return by car tickets for Rishiri and Rebun car ferries, full day private tour of ferry to Wakkanai for the night. Sapporo area, tickets for Sounkyo & Usuzan ropeways, tickets for Upopoy National Ainu Museum and Park, 13 breakfasts, DAY 8 WAKKANAI > SOUNKYO ONSEN 1 lunch and 5 dinners. Drive to Sounkyo Onsen, a hot spring resort in Japan’s largest DEPARTS: Daily, recommended June - August. national park. Enjoy the views from the Kurodake ropeway, visit the area’s beautiful waterfalls, and soak in the hot spring NOTE: In the most remote locations, accommodation used is waters in your room’s private open air onsen. the best available in the area. DAY 9 SOUNKYO ONSEN > BIEI > FURANO 2021 Price (per person) Twin Today leave the mountains of Daisetsuzan and head towards From $13,447 the rolling hills and patchwork fields of Biei. Don’t miss the 10 ASIA
JAPAN Sika deer, Nara Park FAMILY JAPAN | 10 DAYS This journey is one that all the family will love! See the highlights of Tokyo, Hakone and Kyoto, stay in a ryokan with a traditional Japanese style room and ride the famous bullet train. There are plenty of hands-on experiences sure to keep everyone engaged, from sushi making, tea picking and matcha whisking to taiko drumming, cooking at a local home and creating a unique woodblock craft piece. volcanic Owakudani Valley and cruise Lake Ashi. Finish with Tokyo a unique hands-on woodblock craft box workshop. At your ryokan tonight, savour a traditional Japanese Shabu-shabu or JAPAN Sukiyaki dinner. Hakone DAY 7 HAKONE > KYOTO Kyoto Private transfer to the station for your bullet train ride to Kyoto. Wazuka This afternoon you will be taken to a local home for an Obanzai Nara cooking lesson and lunch. This colourful and seasonal cuisine is native to Kyoto and considered the ‘soul food’ of the city. DAY 8 KYOTO > WAZUKA & NARA > KYOTO DAY 1 TOKYO Start your full day private tour in the tea fields of Wazuka, Transfer to your hotel by regular scheduled airport bus. where you learn how to pick tea and whisk your own matcha, DAY 2 TOKYO eat green tea tempura and experience a tea tasting session. Enjoy a full day private tour of Tokyo. Visit the Tsukiji Outer Spend the afternoon in Nara – see the Todaiji Temple and Market, followed by a hands-on sushi making experience meet the freely roaming deer in Nara Park. and lunch. In the afternoon, stop at the Imperial Palace Plaza DAY 9 KYOTO before continuing to Asakusa to see the temple and stroll the On today’s full day private tour, admire the golden Kinkakuji atmospheric Nakamise shopping street. temple before watching the antics of the wild macaques at the DAY 3 TOKYO Arashiyama monkey park. Take a ride on the delightful Sagano See the modern side of Tokyo on today’s full day private tour. sightseeing train and finish with a leisurely traditional-style boat Start at Odaiba’s Digital Art Museum – an interactive world cruise down the Hozu River. of artworks without boundaries. Visit trendy Harajuku and DAY 10 KYOTO > KANSAI AIRPORT Omotesando Street, then experience the famous Shibuya Transfer to the airport by shared shuttle. scramble crossing. Finish the day with a panoramic view of the city from the Shibuya Sky Observatory. DAY 4 TOKYO INCLUDES: Tailor-made itinerary, 7 nights’ hotel Another full day of exploring Tokyo with your private guide. accommodation, 2 nights’ ryokan accommodation, 6 private Explore the world of animation and art at the whimsical Ghibli full day tours, afternoon cooking class in a local home, Museum. Later, join a shared taiko drumming lesson – a fun transfers and trains as indicated, 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches and way to get first-hand experience of the local culture! 2 dinners. DEPARTS: Daily. DAY 5 TOKYO > HAKONE Morning at leisure in Tokyo. This afternoon, transfer by taxi NOTE: Hotel accommodation based on 2 adults and 2 children to the station for your express train ride to Hakone. Private occupying 2 rooms, and ryokan accommodation is one room transfer to your ryokan, with a traditional Japanese style room for all of the family to share. Price based on travelling late Sep/ for the family to share. This evening enjoy an elaborate Kaiseki early Oct. Please contact World Journeys for pricing at other dinner. times of the year. DAY 6 HAKONE 2021 Price (Based on a family of 4, per person) Twin Join your guide for a full day private tour of the Hakone area. Ride the Hakone Ropeway for spectacular views, see the From $8,949 ASIA 11
VIETNAM Halong Bay VIETNAM FAMILY ADVENTURE | 17 DAYS Vietnam is perfect for family travel, with plenty to engage all ages! On this journey you will cover all the highlights and create memories for years to come. Encounter local artists and musicians, learn the art of kite making, cycle through rice fields to the markets and enjoy a cooking class. A Mekong Delta cruise provides some relaxing down time. DAY 11 DALAT Hanoi Halong Bay Enjoy a full day city tour. SOUTH CHINA DAY 12 DALAT > NHA TRANG SEA Hue Hoi An Transfer to Nha Trang. VIETNAM DAY 13 NHA TRANG Nha Trang Cruise to Mun Island and snorkel in the crystal clear waters of Dalat Saigon the marine reserve. After a local island lunch, take a boat along Ben Tre the Cai River to visit local villages and families. DAY 14 NHA TRANG > SAIGON DAY 1 HANOI Fly to Saigon and enjoy a half-day city highlights tour. You will be met and transferred to your hotel. DAY 15 SAIGON > BEN TRE DAYS 2 & 3 HANOI Transfer to the Ben Tre Province. Cruise along the Mekong See the highlights of the city, finishing with a water puppet show. Delta on a private local boat and observe the way of life on the The following day, visit a pottery village and learn from the local river. After lunch, check in to your hotel. craftsmen. Try making your own piece and enjoy a hosted lunch DAY 16 BEN TRE > SAIGON in an ancient house. Experience the Cai Rang floating market aboard a local boat DAY 4 HANOI > HALONG BAY before transferring back to Saigon. Travel to Halong Bay where you will board your deluxe junk DAY 17 SAIGON for a cruise, including a visit to Tien Ong Cave. Transfer to the airport. DAY 5 HALONG BAY > HANOI Disembark and drive back to Hanoi for overnight. INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey with English-speaking local DAY 6 HANOI > HUE guides, 15 nights’ accommodation, 1 night Halong Bay deluxe Morning flight to Hue. Upon arrival, enjoy a half-day city tour. junk cruise, flights Hanoi > Hue, Danang > Dalat & Nha Trang DAY 7 HUE > Saigon, transfers and transport, sightseeing and entrance fees, Today visit the Khai Dinh Royal Tomb and later, learn the art water puppet show, 16 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 1 dinner. of kite making and flying (weather permitting). DEPARTS: Daily. DAY 8 HUE > HOI AN NOTE: Surcharges apply for travel over Christmas and New Transfer to Hoi An and enjoy a half-day walking tour. Year, enquire for pricing. Prices based on 2 adults and 2 children occupying 2 rooms, enquire for more information. DAY 9 HOI AN Morning tour of a colourful local marketplace, followed by a cooking class with a professional chef. 2021 Price (per person) Twin DAY 10 HOI AN > DANANG > DALAT 3 Jan – 31 Mar $5,287 4 Star Transfer to Danang airport and fly to Dalat. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. 1 Apr – 30 Sep $5,024 12 ASIA
VIETNAM Yen stream on the way to Huong Pagoda VIETNAM IN STYLE | 12 DAYS Stay in some of Vietnam’s finest accommodation as you explore this fascinating country. Drive through the rural north, sail on a river through rice paddies to sacred caves, observe French influences in the streets of Hanoi, admire beautiful Halong Bay and venture into the ‘forbidden city’ of Hue before continuing to bustling Saigon and the Mekong Delta. with an afternoon learning the art of lantern making. Hanoi Halong DAY 7 HOI AN Bay Full day at leisure to relax on the beach or have clothes tailored. SOUTH CHINA DAY 8 HOI AN > DANANG > HUE SEA Hue Enjoy the spectacular views as you drive over the Hai Van Pass Hoi An to Danang, stopping at the Cham Museum. Continue to Hue. VIETNAM DAY 9 HUE Saigon Take a bike taxi to the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Mekong Delta Ben Tre Heritage Site that houses some magnificent architecture and gardens. In the afternoon visit the Khai Dinh Royal Tomb. DAY 1 HANOI DAY 10 HUE > SAIGON You will be met and transferred to your hotel. Fly to Saigon and transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy a Vespa tour of the city. DAY 2 HANOI Enjoy a full day sightseeing tour of the city including the Old DAY 11 SAIGON > BEN TRE > MEKONG DELTA Quarter by cyclo bike, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and an Drive to Ben Tre and board your Mango Cruise on the Ham entertaining water puppet performance. Luong River. Visit local villages and handicraft workshops. DAY 3 HANOI DAY 12 MEKONG DELTA > SAIGON Travel to the Red River Delta village of Tho Ha via a short drive Morning cycling trip to Vung Liem town, visiting the Happy and ferry ride across the Cau River, returning in the afternoon. Buddha and Cao Dai Temples. Transfer to the airport. Later, visit the Old Quarter to try popular street food dishes, including banh mi, pho and Vietnamese egg coffee. DAY 4 HANOI > HALONG BAY INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey, 9 nights’ accommodation, Drive to Halong Bay to board your deluxe junk, followed by 1 night Halong Bay deluxe junk cruise, 1 night private Mango a visit to Tien Ong cave and the Cua Van fishing village. Back Cruise, flights Hanoi > Danang & Hue > Saigon, transfers on board the boat, join a cooking class with the chef or enjoy and transport, sightseeing with English-speaking local guides, sunset cocktails and canapes on the top deck before dinner. entrance fees, water puppet show, boat rides, 11 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 3 dinners. DAY 5 HALONG BAY > HANOI > DANANG > HOI AN DEPARTS: Daily. Visit Soi Sim Island, where you can relax on board or climb to the top of the island for a panoramic view of the entire bay. NOTE: Surcharges apply during public holidays and peak After brunch, transfer back to Hanoi via Thanh Chuong Palace. periods. Please contact World Journeys for details. Fly to Danang and transfer to your hotel in Hoi An. 2021 Price (per person) Twin DAY 6 HOI AN Explore this World Heritage listed ancient town on a guided 3 Jan – 31 Mar $7,211 5 Star walking tour through pedestrian-only streets. See the 400-year- 1 Apr – 30 Sep $6,899 old Japanese Covered Bridge and a colourful market, finishing ASIA 13
VIETNAM Paper flowers, Hue VIETNAM ART & HERITAGE | 11 DAYS Gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s history and culture through the perspective of arts and crafts. Meet with artisans who are passionate about preserving their craft and learn how cultural traditions are expressed through their work. Explore current art trends with local curators and art scholars as they show you their world of contemporary art. DAY 1 HANOI DAY 7 HOI AN You will be met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder Visit the pottery village of Thanh Ha, which created the bricks, of the day is at leisure. tiles and floor slabs for buildings in Hoi An’s ancient town in the 17th and 18th centuries. Today villagers have preserved the craft DAY 2 HANOI by transitioning to beautiful decorative pieces. In the afternoon Head to the small alleyways of the Old Quarter to learn about meet an artisan specialising in bamboo utility design and learn the techniques and history of Hang Trong woodblock painting how bamboo is used in everyday life. from a traditional artisan. In the afternoon, explore the world of contemporary Vietnamese art through the eyes of a local DAY 8 HOI AN > DANANG > SAIGON curator. After visiting both museums and galleries, finish with Fly to Saigon, home to a burgeoning contemporary art scene a cocktail reception. led by young emerging artists. A modern art scholar will provide insight into the current art trends, as you visit the Fine Arts DAY 3 HANOI Museum, an artist’s studio, and the newly opened Saigon Salon. Drive to the Bac Ninh province, the homeland of temples, DAY 9 SAIGON > BEN TRE > CAN THO festivals, folk rituals and crafts. At the Dong Ho woodblock Drive to Ben Tre and explore the small villages of the area, where village, visit an old craftsman and hear about his attempts to locals will teach you about traditional sticky rice dishes, local preserve this soulful art technique. Afterwards, enjoy a tea break shipbuilding and exotic fruit farming. Enjoy a lunch at a farmer’s at the studio of an artist with extensive experience in a variety house before driving to Can Tho for the night. of art mediums. DAY 10 CAN THO DAY 4 HANOI > HUE Visit the colourful floating market where wholesalers converge Transfer to the airport and fly to the former Imperial capital of on the Mekong River to sell their goods. Return to shore for Hue. Meet with an expert to learn about the revival of Phap Lam a city tour, starting with the Can Tho Museum and the Binh enamel art, unique for its copper base layered with colourful Thuy Ancient House. enamel paint. See the complete process behind this stunning art form, and try your hand at creating your own piece. DAY 11 CAN THO > SAIGON Transfer to the airport in Saigon. DAY 5 HUE Embark on a 1 hour dragon boat ride to a rural village, where INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey, 10 nights’ accommodation, you are invited into the house of a local artisan. Learn about the flights Hanoi > Hue & Danang > Saigon, sightseeing with 400-year-old craft of paintings made from dzo (tree bark) paper English-speaking local guides, transfers and transport, entrance and natural dyes, preserved with a layer of sticky rice paste. Cycle fees, 10 breakfasts and 1 lunch. past rice fields to another village known for paper flower making, DEPARTS: Daily. then cycle back to your hotel via scenic flower and vegetable growing villages. 2021 Price (per person) Twin Single DAY 6 HUE > HOI AN 3 Jan – 31 Mar $4,039 $7,106 5 Star 4 Star Transfer to Hoi An and explore this World Heritage listed ancient town on a guided walking tour through pedestrian- 1 Apr – 30 Sep $3,901 $6,833 only streets. See the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge and 3 Jan – 31 Mar $6,172 $11,299 a colourful market, finishing with an afternoon learning the art of lantern making. 1 Apr – 30 Sep $6,099 $11,150 14 ASIA
CAMBODIA & VIETNAM Mekong Delta THE LOST CIVILISATION | 8 DAYS Cruise along the Mekong River with Heritage Line. This classic cruise combines places rarely visited along with opulent UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Choose from a range of itineraries on luxury boutique cruisers The Jayavarman or The Jahan and explore in comfort and style. DAY 7 KAMPONG CHHNANG > TONLE SAP Enjoy a motorboat excursion to see a Khmer-styled pottery TONLE village, and continue towards the Great Tonle Lake past Siem Reap SAP wetlands, floating houses and fish farms. CAMBODIA VIETNAM Kampong DAY 8 TONLE SAP > SIEM REAP Chhnang Kampong Cham Disembark after breakfast and transfer to Siem Reap. Phnom Penh Saigon Chau Doc My Tho SOUTH Sa Dec Cai Be CHINA SEA DAY 1 SAIGON > MY THO > CAI BE Travel 70km south by land to My Tho to board your ship and begin your cruise to Cai Be. The Jayavarman DAY 2 CAI BE > SA DEC > CHAU DOC Visit the colourful Cai Be floating market aboard a traditional INCLUDES: 7 nights’ river cruise aboard The Jayavarman, all sampan. Sail through the canals to an ancient house surrounded meals on board, shore excursions with English-speaking guides, by fruit orchards. Cruise to Sa Dec and tour Binh Thanh Island entrance fees and transport, coffee and tea with breakfast, taxes and the man-made canals. Evening cruise to Chau Doc. and transfers in Saigon and Siem Reap. DAY 3 CHAU DOC > PHNOM PENH DEPARTS: Alternate Saturdays: Jan 1 – Dec 17. Visit the bustling local market, then journey to the quay for a NOTE: Gratuities are not included. Suggested amount is US$5 boat excursion to floating villages, rustic catfish farms and the per person per day. Cruise available in sections and in reverse. local Cham Muslim community village. This journey also operates on The Jahan (supplements apply), DAY 4 PHNOM PENH please enquire for more information. Surcharges apply for travel Tour this dynamic city including its Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda over Christmas and New Year, enquire for pricing. Ship in dry and National Museum. Visit the Genocide Museum and dock 1 May – 20 Aug. Killing Fields. 2021 Price (per person) Twin Single DAY 5 PHNOM PENH > KAMPONG CHAM Tour the rural Angkor Ban village and learn about the variety 1 Jan – 31 Mar $5,265 $7,591 Superior of traditional Khmer fashion. Visit a local school, then travel to 1 Apr – 30 Apr $4,155 $5,983 the pre-Angkorian 8th century temple of Wat Hanchey and see 21 Aug – 30 Sep $3,434 $4,935 one of the most breathtaking views in Cambodia. 1 Oct – 31 Dec $5,265 $7,591 DAY 6 KAMPONG CHAM > KAMPONG CHHNANG 1 Jan – 31 Mar $6,107 $8,812 Explore the silk weaving island of Koh Oknha Tey by tuk tuk Deluxe 1 Apr – 30 Apr $4,902 $7,064 and witness the full process of the manufacture of high class 21 Aug – 30 Sep $3,914 $5,636 Cambodian silk. Cruise through the jungle-like landscape to Kampong Tralach and observe local life from an ox cart. 1 Oct – 31 Dec $6,107 $8,812 ASIA 15
CAMBODIA Angkor Wat CAMBODIA IN STYLE | 5 DAYS Discover the history of Cambodia with visits to Angkor Wat in Siem Reap and history museums in Phnom Penh. Enjoy the hospitality of a home-cooked Khmer dinner with a local family, see the temples and cities and visit stilted villages on Lake Tonle Sap. a sunset cruise on Tonle Sap Lake, passing by floating villages and houses on stilts. Banteay Srei DAY 5 SIEM REAP Siem Reap You will be transferred to the airport. Tonle Sap CAMBODIA Phnom Penh DAY 1 PHNOM PENH Transfer on arrival to your hotel and then go on a cyclo tour of the city. Enjoy a leisurely cruise on the Mekong River and witness a sunset over the Royal Palace. Enjoy dinner at a renowned restaurant. DAY 2 PHNOM PENH > SIEM REAP Fly to Siem Reap. Visit Angkor Wat by tuk tuk, watch the sunset in a tethered helium balloon and enjoy a home-cooked dinner with a typical Khmer family. Tonle Sap DAY 3 SIEM REAP INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey with English-speaking local Morning visit to Ta Prohm and Ta Keo temples, followed by guide, 4 nights’ accommodation, flights Phnom Penh > Siem the Bayon temple at Angkor Thom, as well as the Terrace of Reap, transfers and transport, sightseeing and entrance fees, 4 the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King. Afternoon breakfasts, 1 lunch and 4 dinners. walking tour of Angkor Wat. DEPARTS: Daily. Itinerary is available in reverse. DAY 4 SIEM REAP > BANTEAY SREI > TONLE SAP NOTE: Surcharges apply over Christmas, New Year, Chaul > SIEM REAP Chnam Thmey and Cambodian New Year. Enquire for details. Drive to the temple of Banteay Srei, which translates to “Citadel of the Women”, before continuing to Kbal Spean for a short 2021 Price (per person) Twin Single hike to the top to see the inscribed rocks and statues in the river. 3 Jan – 31 Mar $2,858 $4,775 5 Star Lunch provided in a traditional restaurant. In the late afternoon transfer to the trading port of Chhong Kneas and embark on 1 Apr – 30 Sep $2,533 $4,210 16 ASIA
CAMBODIA Angkor Thom ANGKOR DISCOVERY | 4 DAYS It is difficult to describe the scale and majesty of the Temples of Angkor. Built by kings who were said to be incarnations of the gods, these incredible temple-cities were once home to hundreds of thousands of people. DAY 4 TONLE SAP & BENG MEALEA Banteay Srei See colourful floating houses during a traditional boat ride on CAMBODIA Tonle Sap Lake from Kompong Khleang, stopping for lunch Beng Mealea in a traditional wooden house located on the shores of the lake. Angkor Thom Then drive north for an hour to Beng Mealea, a 900-year-old Angkor Wat temple spread over several acres of jungle. Enjoy some time at Siem Reap leisure before transferring to the airport. TONLE SAP LAKE Kompong Khleang DAY 1 SIEM REAP Transfer to your hotel on arrival. This evening, enjoy the best of Cambodian cuisine and an Apsara dance performance. Watch as dancers, singers and musicians bring ancient Khmer culture to life in ornate silk costumes inspired by the wall carvings of the Angkor temples. Monks, Angkor Wat DAY 2 TEMPLES OF THE GRAND INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey with English-speaking local CIRCUIT, ANGKOR WAT guides, 3 nights’ accommodation, transfers and transport, Depart on a full day tour to the Temples of the Grand Circuit, sightseeing and entrance fees, 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 1 which hug the shores of North Baray and include Preah Khan dinner. Temple, Neak Pean and Ta Som. Continue after lunch to DEPARTS: Daily. Banteay Samre, Eastern Mebon and Pre Rup. Follow the shores of Sras Srang back to Siem Reap as the sun sets. NOTE: Surcharges apply over Christmas, New Year, Chaul Chnam Thmey and Cambodian New Year. Enquire for details. DAY 3 TA PROHM & ANGKOR THOM Depart early for Ta Prohm, where the magnificent tree roots 2021 Price (per person) Twin Single have merged over the centuries with the temple’s huge stone 3 Jan – 31 Mar $1,697 $2,829 5 Star 4 Star blocks, and travel by tuk tuk through the forest to Banteay Kdei. In the afternoon, depart to Angkor Thom to visit its 1 Apr – 30 Sep $1,475 $2,444 centrepiece, the Bayon Temple. Continue to the Terrace of 3 Jan – 31 Mar $2,411 $4,250 the Elephants and Terrace of the Leper before heading back to Siem Reap. 1 Apr – 30 Sep $1,773 $3,007 ASIA 17
LAOS Patuxai Gate, Vientiane LUXURY LAOS IN STYLE | 6 DAYS Discover the distinctive charm and beauty of Laos on this journey through the kingdom formerly known as Lang Xang, the Land of a Million Elephants. Staying in elegant hotels, experience the unique atmosphere of Luang Prabang and enigmatic Vientiane. Along the way you will be enchanted by this country with its friendly and relaxed people. DAY 4 LUANG PRABANG > VIENTIANE Fly to Vientiane. Day at leisure. VIETNAM DAY 5 VIENTIANE City tour including That Luang and panoramic views from the roof of Patuxai and Wat Sisaket where you will see hundreds of Buddha statues! Luang Prabang DAY 6 VIENTIANE You will be transferred to the airport. LAOS Vientiane CAMBODIA DAY 1 LUANG PRABANG You will be met and transferred to your hotel. Orientation tour including chatting with monks at a local temple. Climb Mount Phousi with views over the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers. Take part in a Baci Ceremony. Buddhist Monks, Luang Prabang DAY 2 LUANG PRABANG INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey with English-speaking local Special dawn witnessing of orange-robed monks receiving guides, 5 nights’ accommodation, flights Luang Prabang > offerings. Enjoy a tour of the historical Old Town including Vientiane, transfers and transport, sightseeing and entrance the Royal Palace and National Museum and some of Luang fees, 5 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners. Prabang’s famed temples – Wat Visoun, Wat That Luang, Wat DEPARTS: Daily. Mai and Wat Xieng Thong. Later, head to a nearby village for a cooking class and dinner. NOTE: Surcharges apply during the Lao New Year (13–15 Apr) and peak periods. Enquire for details. DAY 3 LUANG PRABANG Take a private longboat trip up the Mekong to Pak Ou Caves, 2021 Price (per person) Twin Single exploring the limestone grottos which house thousands of sacred Buddhist statues and images. Return via a local village 6 Jan – 31 Mar $2,931 $5,313 5 Star to observe local weavers and whisky distillers. 1 Apr – 30 Sep $2,364 $4,181 18 ASIA
LAOS Lao street food LAOS CULINARY TOUR | 6 DAYS Laos remains relatively untouched by tourism, with a serene, unhurried way of life not usually found in other countries of Southeast Asia. Experience the kindness and warmth of the Lao people and explore the rich history of Vientiane and the ancient capital of Luang Prabang. This tour is for food lovers who want to immerse themselves in the authentic Lao cuisine that embraces fresh, aromatic ingredients sourced from the lush, green countryside. VIETNAM DAY 5 BAN NAYANG Ban Nayang Depart in the early morning for a 3.5 hour drive to Ban Nayang, a Tai Lu village, home to around 500 Tai Lu people who LAOS originate from an ethnic group that migrated from Yunnan, Luang China, in the late 18th century. As well as learning about village Prabang life and traditional working methods and crafts, enjoy a lunch cooked by villagers and served in a local home. Return to Luang Prabang in the afternoon to explore the city’s famous night Vientiane market and try a traditional sindad BBQ. CAMBODIA DAY 6 LUANG PRABANG You will be transferred to the airport. DAY 1 VIENTIANE You will be met and transferred to your hotel. DAY 2 VIENTIANE Spend the morning visiting some of Vientiane’s most significant landmarks, including Wat Sisaket, Wat Phra Keo, Wat Si Muang and Patuxai Victory Monument. End the tour with a visit to That Luang, regarded as the most important national monument in Laos. In the evening, depart on an adventurous dinner safari by tuk tuk, exploring and eating at the bustling evening food market. Afterwards take a short walk to a well known roadside dessert and drink night market. DAY 3 VIENTIANE > LUANG PRABANG Fly to Luang Prabang and transfer to your hotel. Night market, Luang Prabang DAY 4 LUANG PRABANG INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey with English-speaking local Explore Luang Prabang on foot and by bicycle, visiting markets guides, 5 nights’ accommodation, flights Vientiane > Luang and places not frequented by tourists, such as the morning Prabang, transfers and transport, sightseeing and entrance fees, market, where you will find all sorts of culinary delights on sale 4 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 3 dinners. while your guide explains how they are used in a Lao kitchen. DEPARTS: Daily. Enjoy a coffee and local Lao pastry in the most famous Lao NOTE: Surcharges apply during the Lao New Year (13–15 Apr) coffee shop by the Mekong River. Ride the short distance to and peak periods. Enquire for details. Ban Mano to try some local dishes and then continue to a rice noodle factory and a Kaw Chi bakery. Return to your hotel in 2020 Price (per person) Twin Single the early afternoon before being taken to your open-air Laotian cooking class at the Belmond La Residence Pho Vao, where you 5 Star: 6 Jan – 31 Mar $2,398 $4,241 will be able to enjoy the meal that you helped prepare in the 5 Star: 1 Apr – 30 Sep $2,008 $3,470 hotel’s restaurant overlooking the mountainous vista. ASIA 19
MYANMAR Inle Lake A WORLD APART | 11 DAYS ‘This is Burma. It is quite unlike any place you know about’, wrote Kipling. More than a century later these words still ring true. Myanmar is a world apart, retaining its old world charm by holding onto traditions lost elsewhere in Asia. a collection of 729 stone slabs documenting Buddha’s teachings. Mandalay Visit the Buddha at Shweyattaw temple up Mandalay Hill. Pindaya Bagan MYANMAR Heho DAY 7 ANCIENT CAPITALS Mt Popa Lake Inle Visit Amarapura to see the country’s largest monastery. Continue to the teak bridge of U Bein and Sagaing Hill, home to over 3,000 monks. Visit Ava and then ride a horse-drawn carriage to Bagaya Monastery and the Royal Palace. Bago DAY 8 MANDALAY > HEHO > PINDAYA Fly to Heho and transfer to Pindaya. Visit limestone caves which Yangon house thousands of Buddha images. Visit a Shan umbrella and mulberry paper production home industry. DAY 1 YANGON You will be met and transferred to your hotel. DAY 9 PINDAYA > KALAW > INLE LAKE Transfer to Kalaw and visit the Pinmagon monastery. Visit DAY 2 YANGON the King church, the local market and observe the different Tour the city to enjoy a mix of colonial architecture, high rise hill tribes. Enjoy a scenic drive to the second largest lake, Inle. buildings and beautiful pagodas. Finish with the Shwedagon Pagoda, which attracts pilgrims from all over the world. DAY 10 INLE LAKE Boat trip to the floating market and gardens. Visit Inle Lake DAY 3 YANGON > BAGO > YANGON to see the Shwe Indein Pagoda, a group of Buddhist pagodas. Drive to Bago and visit the Shwemawdaw Pagoda, the tallest in Visit Pa O tribe village, a monastery and ancient pagoda ruins. the country. See the giant reclining Buddha. Finish with Kyaik Pun Pagoda, famous for its four giant Buddha statues. DAY 11 INLE LAKE > HEHO > YANGON Drive from Inle Lake to Heho Airport for your flight to Yangon. DAY 4 YANGON > BAGAN Fly to Bagan. Visit Dhammayangyi temple with its mysterious inner passageways. See Mingalazedi’s glazed Jataka tiles, intact INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey with English-speaking mural paintings at Htilominlo and the Shwezigon Pagoda. local guides, 10 nights’ accommodation, flights Yangon > Bagan > Mandalay > Heho > Yangon, transfers and transport, DAY 5 BAGAN > MOUNT POPA > SALAY > BAGAN sightseeing and entrance fees, 10 breakfasts and 6 lunches. Visit the Buddhist monastery Taung Kalat, believed to be home to 37 ‘nats’ (spirits) atop Mount Popa, for lunch and incredible DEPARTS: Daily. views. Continue to Salay and Yoke-Sone-Kyaung Monastery. NOTE: Surcharges apply during the Burmese New Year. DAY 6 BAGAN > MANDALAY Fly to Mandalay. Visit Mahamuni Temple and the Cultural 2021 Price (per person) Twin Single Museum. See Kuthodaw Temple and the world’s largest book, 4 Star: from $5,011 $8,327 20 ASIA
MYANMAR Monks, Bagan AYEYARWADY ADVENTURE | 8 DAYS Cruise along the mighty Ayeyarwady River on board the luxurious Belmond Road to Mandalay river cruiser. Experience the enchanting sights, scents and sounds of Myanmar from the perfect vantage point on board and stop off to explore rural villages from a bygone era. See saffron-robed monks go about their daily rituals and marvel at the golden spires of pagodas, which soar out of the lush jungle. DAY 1 BAGAN DAY 6 AVA Join your cruise in Bagan. In the afternoon, take a guided tour After a morning almsgiving ceremony, sail to Ava and alight for and watch the sun set over golden pagodas and ancient temples a tour of the ancient capital by bike or horse and cart. DAY 2 BAGAN DAY 7 BAGAN Before setting sail, embark on the morning adventure of your Plenty to choose from today; head to a secluded village, join a choice – a bicycle or horse and cart ride around the temples temple meditation session or visit colourful Chauk Market en of Old Bagan, a sunrise temple tour, or a visit to a village route to Salay. community project. DAY 8 BAGAN DAY 3 MINGUN Disembark this morning. In Mingun, take a guided excursion of the historical sites nearby, or join a walk through a rural village where you will get to know the locals. DAY 4 MANDALAY INCLUDES: 7 nights’ river cruise based on two people sharing Enjoy your choice of tour in Mandalay, visiting important a superior cabin onboard the Belmond Road to Mandalay, all historic sites throughout the city such as Kuthodaw Pagoda table d’hôte meals, sightseeing and entrance fees. and Shwenandaw Golden Monastery, or focusing on the city’s DEPARTS: Specific dates Oct – Dec. renowned traditional crafts, using materials such as bronze, NOTE: Single prices for sole use of cabins are available on marble, silk and wood. request. Enquire for other cruising itineraries including 3 and DAY 5 MANDALAY & SAGAING 4 night cruises. Prices shown are per person and are a guide In Mandalay this morning, watch skilled artisans at work and price, which may vary on departure dates and journey types. learn about the local arts and cottage industries. This afternoon, discover the hills of Sagaing, the spiritual centre of Myanmar 2021 Price in USD (per person) Twin and home to hundreds of monasteries, nunneries and Buddhist learning centres. 5 Star: from USD$2,415 The Belmond Road to Mandalay River Cruiser Your perfect sanctuary awaits you on board this luxurious river cruiser at the end of each day after exploring the exotic shores. Whether you choose a refreshing swim in the pool, a cool drink on the deck or the privacy of your ensuite, air- conditioned cabin, you could not choose a better way to enjoy your journey. For a dining experience to rival no other, an explosion of Burmese, Thai, Indonesian, Indian and European flavours awaits you in the elegant restaurant below decks. ASIA 21
MYANMAR Ubein Bridge, Mandalay THE CHINDWIN EXPLORER | 12 DAYS The Chindwin River is the largest tributary of the Ayeyarwady, along which you will find flourishing teak forests and villages that have seen few tourists, all while enjoying the comforts of a luxurious river cruiser, the Anawrahta. DAY 1 MANDALAY DAY 9 MAWLAIK Board the Anawrahta at Mandalay. Enjoy afternoon tea and a Tour Mawlaik and enjoy some mini-golf before returning to the longyi cocktail party before dinner. ship. If time permits, visit the small village of Kyi Taung Oo. DAY 2 AH MYINT VILLAGE > MONYWA DAY 10 PHO WIN TAUNG > SHWE BA TAUNG Enter the Chindwin River and disembark to tour the historical In the afternoon, visit the cave temple complexes at Pho Win village of Ah Myint. After lunch, visit Thanboddhay Pagoda and Taung and the Shwe Ba Taung mountains. the second tallest Buddha statue in the world, at 116 metres. DAY 11 BAGAN DAY 3 MOKTAW Arrive at Bagan this afternoon for a temple tour. The evening Visit Moktaw, a typical riverside village. In the evening, dress in ends at one of the “sunset” pagodas or other high ground to style for a “toast to the past” in the Kipling’s Bar. watch the breathtaking sunset over the temple-strewn plain. DAY 4 MAUKKADAW > KALAYWA DAY 12 BAGAN Tour the small village of Maukkadaw. Later, a Burmese language Disembark in the morning. lesson will help you prepare for a visit to the market tomorrow. DAY 5 KALAYWA Local tuk tuk tour of Kalaywa. Visit a hilltop pagoda for INCLUDES: 11 nights river cruise based on two people sharing amazing views before continuing to the Kalaywa market. a superior cabin onboard the Anawrahta, all table d’hôte meals, DAY 6 SITTAUNG transfers and transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Afternoon visit to the small village of Sittaung. See the ships of DEPARTS: 19 Aug, 3 Sep & 17 Sep. the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company, before continuing upstream. NOTE: Single prices for sole use of cabins are available on DAY 7 TOUNGDOOT > HOMALIN request. In the afternoon, visit the town of Homalin. Witness stunning views from the Buddha Lotus Garden and visit the Naga village. 2021 Price (per person) Twin DAY 8 ON BOARD A day at leisure to relax and enjoy the facilities on board. 5 Star: Deluxe State room from $6,139 The Anawrahta – The Great King With the largest cabin space on the Ayeyarwady River and the highest crew to passenger ratio, the Anawrahta offers the finest onboard experience in Myanmar. This impressive vessel is named after the founder of the Burmese nation. Built to resemble a British colonial paddle steamer, the elegant 65 metre long Anawrahta features three spacious decks, 23 luxurious cabins, a 360-degree view pool on the sundeck and a luxurious spa. With its polished lacquer, intricately carved woodwork and shining brass, you are taken back to a time of bygone elegance. 22 ASIA
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